Lola's

We went to Lola‘s with great anticipation, after having it highly recommended by other travelers. While the setting is absolutely stunning, and I would highly recommend going there for this alone, the service was just OK, and the food was just OK, and the ability to accommodate gluten-free was surprisingly limited. Most restaurants in Costa Rica we visited were very happy to accommodate gluten-free needs, already had their menus labeled for gluten-free dishes, readily understood how to navigate gluten issues, and were overall very eager to accommodate us. Lola’s however, seemed more concerned with telling us how gluten-free would make food “bad” even though we order similar dishes with the same modifications all the time, and how it was difficult for them to accommodate gluten-free needs. I understand that it can be difficult, but if you do a little training of your kitchen staff and your wait staff and read food labels for your ingredients, it’s really not that hard. Perhaps they have had particularly difficult customers that have made them not want to accommodate gluten-free needs, or perhaps their management or ownership just doesn’t care about this. So, unfortunately, if you’re gluten-free, go to the restaurant across the street, they are very eager and excited to accommodate gluten-free needs and have no problem navigating The challenges associated with this. Their view of the beach is not good there, but their staff are very friendly, and their food is excellent. Go to Lola‘s for the views, the beach chairs, the drinks (which were awesome!) and if you are not gluten-free, it’s a fine place to eat.

There’s few things better than great beachside food and cold refreshing beverages with friends and family after a long, hot perfect day in the sun. Lola’s, located directly on Playa Avellanas, not only offered an incredible setting, but wonderful menu offerings brilliantly executed, with a friendly, efficient, informative staff - all with large portions at more than reasonable pricing. Perfectly curated music, at a volume designed to enhance ambiance and atmosphere but not overwhelm both the natural backdrop and conversations, is a great touch. Of special note from the menu offerings, the Ahi Tuna Poké appetizer (with a portion size definitely meant for sharing - and a quick heads up - though ordered as an api this dish was last to arrive… but well, well worth it), any of the various wood-fired ultra-thin crust artisanal pizzas, and the beer-battered fish and chips (unbelievable), though there is a depth and breadth of menu options to please even the pickiest palates with numerous vegan and gluten-free options. Highly recommended.